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Franciscan Foundation Welcomes New Director Of Annual Giving

Barbara James has been named director of annual giving for the Franciscan Foundation, which raises funds to support the mission and healing ministry of the non-profit Franciscan Health System.

She has more than 20 years of experience in philanthropy with various organizations in education and health care. Most recently, James served as chief executive director of the Washington State Court Appointed State Advocates (CASA). In that position, she directed more than 3,000 volunteers who served 8,000 children across the state. CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to advocate for the interests of abused and neglected children in courtrooms and other settings.

"We are very pleased to welcome Barbara to our Franciscan Family," said Franciscan Foundation President Greg Unruh. "Her expertise and leadership will help us sustain and build essential relationships in support of our health system’s mission to create healthier communities."

"I feel blessed to have this opportunity to be part of the Franciscan Foundation," said James, who lives in Gig Harbor with her husband and two children. "As a non-profit organization, the Franciscan Health System depends on contributions from individuals, businesses and other organizations to fulfill its health care ministry and serve the needs of the most vulnerable members of our community."

Between July 2011 and June 2012, the Franciscan Health System provided $25 million in charity (free) care for individuals who could not afford to pay for medical services they needed. "Our organization is integral to the quality of life and the health care safety net in the South Puget Sound region," Unruh said.

Franciscan Health System includes St. Joseph Medical Center, Tacoma; St. Francis Hospital, Federal Way; St. Clare Hospital, Lakewood; St. Elizabeth Hospital, Enumclaw; St. Anthony Hospital, Gig Harbor; and Franciscan Medical Group clinics in Pierce, King and Kitsap counties.